The Bug Guy Chronicles – #76

The Bug Guy Chronicles – #76

You know the difference between ooh and ah? 10-15 Degrees!!! And ah it’s GREAT! This is definitely the time of year to be outside taking care of the special needs around the home or office, especially those I discussed in last months article.

With the cooler weather, our minds begin to think of the Holidays and less about mechanical alterations and pest control. But, let me remind you that the insects could care less about the Holidays. Every day that goes by and they are not “persuaded” or forced to leave your property is their Holiday. Cooler weather will bring on other uninvited guest such as rodents and other critters. You truly want to take this time to cut back tree limbs from your home and seal up openings to prevent easy access. If you are not certain as to what needs to be completed, call us. The damages caused by the intruders can be quite costly and in some cases a complete loss.

This is good time of the year to begin an annual fire ant treatment program. Fire ant control for a property can now be done with a single application, and obtain a full year of protection. We use a product called Top Choice. It is slow to take control, but 6-8 weeks after the application your neighbors will be wondering why they have all the fire ants. It’s not an inexpensive product…but it works and works well.

Silverfish have been recent concern. These insects hide during the day and prefer to rest in tight cracks or crevices and can be found almost anywhere in a home or business. They tend to concentrate in the bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms and attics. This is because they need a temperature range of 72-90 degrees and at least 50-75% humidity in order to reproduce. It will take 3-4 months before a silverfish becomes an adult, under favorable conditions and can live up to 3 years. Silverfish are commonly referred to as a paper pest. This is because they prefer to forage on paper products but are particularly drawn to wallpaper and wallpaper paste, glazed papers and papers with sizing. Certain species of silverfish prefer linen, rayon, and cotton, but not wools or true silks.

The key to control of silverfish is the proper identification of the infested areas and available food sources. Many infestations are very localized and environmental modifications can reduce the population. In most cases a crack and crevice application with a properly labeled insecticide is needed as well as a wall void treatment.

If the mosquitoes have become the debate around your home, then take charge of the problem. Give your spouse and kids the relief they need to enjoy the outdoors. Mosquito Misting Systems are extremely effective at regaining your backyard. Our clients have expressed their gratitude ten times over and say they wished that they had installed the system many years ago. What a great Christmas present for the family!!

If you would like more information or a free proposal on these systems or any pest related service, please contact me at Chase Pest Control. Our office number is 936-441-2847 or by email at cary@chasepestcontrol.com. Until the next issue, have a great time outdoors.